Back pain impacts up to 31 million people in the U.S., according to the American Chiropractic Association. If you’re one of the many adults with this uncomfortable issue, take a look at how you can make your move easier and reduce the risks of an additional injury.

Hire Moving Help

What’s the easiest way to decrease the likelihood of adding to your injury or re-injuring your back? Simply stated — don’t move. At least, don’t move by yourself. Heavy boxes, bulky furniture, and over-sized items are tricky to move without an injury. If back pain already compromises your physical health, you need professional help to transport your belongings from one home to another.

How can a professional help you to move while you’re in pain? A moving contractor can take the strain off your back and:

  • Lift boxes or heavy items. The motion used to lift boxes, bins, furniture, and heavy items can put added strain on your back. This lift and twist action may worsen your discomfort or cause a new injury. Let the professionals do the heavy lifting and give your back a break.
  • Pack the truck. Not only will the professionals lift and carry the boxes, furniture, and other belongings, they’ll move and stack boxes in the truck for you too.
  • Unpack the truck. Your back still requires special treatment when you get to your new home. The movers will carry everything out of the truck for you and place boxes, bins, and furniture in the rooms they belong to.

Even though the contractor will do the heavy lifting, you may still have moving tasks that require your attention. Before you add stress and strain to your existing injury, learn more about how you can ease the physical discomfort and make your move easier.

Rest Before the Move

Unless you injure yourself immediately before your moving date, it’s likely you have time to rest and heal. In the days leading up to your move:

  • Reduce activity. Reduce or completely eliminate as much physical activity as possible. If you still have to pack, ask a friend or family member for help.
  • Use ice or heat. When used within the first 48 to 72 hours after an injury, ice is an effective way to reduce pain and swelling, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health. After that time period, you may want to use heat as you rest.
  • Sleep with a pillow. Along with the pillow under your head, sleep or rest with a pillow between your legs (while in the fetal position). This can alleviate pressure and get you in better shape for your move.

Now that you’re well-rested, you may feel like you’re ready to pack. While the combination of reduced activity and ice/heat may ease the pain, you still need to take care during the move prep process.

Pack and Prep Carefully

How can you reduce back strain or discomfort as you pack and prepare for your move? To decrease the likelihood of additional injuries or pain:

  • Talk to your medical provider. Your doctor or physical therapist may have specific research-based strategies to help you move minimally during this process.
  • Take time. Create a calendar with a well-paced lineup of packing and preparation activities. This reduces the amount of time you’ll spend in action and gives you plenty of scheduled rest breaks.
  • Get comfortable. Don’t bend over or lift heavy items into boxes and bins. Find a comfortable spot to sit and pack or prepare.

If the packing process is too physically demanding, ask for help. Enlist friends, your spouse, or your older children to assist as you prepare for the move.

Do you need professional help with your next move? Contact Island Movers if you need some help.